Mechanical Design Engineer - Data Center Hardware

About the role

This position is centered on the mechanical design and validation of hardware solutions tailored for data center environments. You will be responsible for developing innovative mechanical components and assemblies that meet the rigorous demands of high-performance data center equipment. Working closely with electrical, thermal, and manufacturing teams, you will ensure that designs are optimized for manufacturability, thermal management, and durability. The role requires a hands-on approach to solving complex design challenges, utilizing CAD tools and simulation techniques to create reliable, efficient, and scalable hardware solutions. You will participate in design reviews, collaborate with external manufacturing partners, and support prototype testing to ensure product quality and performance. This is an on-site role based in Santa Clara, CA, requiring active engagement in a fast-paced, innovative environment.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including electrical, thermal, and manufacturing engineers to develop mechanical design concepts that meet product specifications and market needs.
• Use Creo 3D CAD software to create detailed 3D models and technical drawings for mechanical components, assemblies, and enclosures.
• Lead and facilitate design review sessions with internal teams and external partners to gather feedback and refine designs.
• Manage the bill of materials (BOM) and utilize Agile PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) tools to track design changes, release products, and coordinate updates across teams.
• Develop 3D models to support thermal simulations, including designing heat sinks, airflow pathways, and other thermal management components based on simulation data.
• Document design specifications, manufacturing instructions, and assembly procedures to ensure clarity and consistency for production.
• Conduct airflow and thermal testing in laboratory environments to validate the thermal performance of mechanical designs and identify areas for improvement.
• Provide PCB design files and collaborate with electrical engineers to resolve layout issues, ensuring mechanical and electrical compatibility.
• Work with contract manufacturers to address design for manufacturability (DFM), ensuring that components can be produced efficiently and at high quality.
• Test prototypes in the lab, troubleshoot issues, and implement design modifications based on test results to meet performance and reliability standards.
• Communicate manufacturing challenges and design constraints to external vendors and contract manufacturers to facilitate smooth production processes.
• Monitor external lab testing results, analyze data, and implement necessary design adjustments to meet compliance and performance requirements.
• Participate in cross-functional meetings to address production support issues, resolve design-related challenges, and improve product robustness.
• Some travel to locations in Asia and North America may be necessary to support manufacturing, testing, and supplier coordination.

Requirements

• Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• Proven experience in mechanical design, particularly for computer or network hardware used in data center environments.
• Demonstrated ability to design sheet metal components following soft tooling (prototype) and hard tooling (mass production) guidelines.
• Experience designing plastic parts for both aesthetic and functional purposes, including considerations for manufacturability and durability.
• Proficiency with Creo 3D CAD software for modeling, detailing, and assembly creation.
• Knowledge of Mechanica (PTC Creo Simulate) or similar simulation tools is a plus, especially for thermal and structural analysis.
• Familiarity with thermal management techniques, airflow optimization, and heat sink design.
• Understanding of liquid cooling systems and their integration into hardware designs is desirable.
• Experience working with Agile PLM or similar product lifecycle management tools for managing design data.
• Knowledge of PTC Windchill or equivalent PLM systems is advantageous.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, capable of working effectively within a multidisciplinary team.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Willingness to travel occasionally to Asia and North America for manufacturing support, testing, and supplier coordination.

Nice to have

• Experience with thermal simulations and airflow testing techniques.
• Prior work designing hardware for data centers, enterprise networking, or related fields.
• Familiarity with manufacturing processes for sheet metal and plastic components, including DFM considerations.
• Knowledge of industry standards related to data center hardware, safety, and reliability.
• Experience working with international manufacturing partners and suppliers.

Skills & tools

• Creo 3D CAD software
• Agile PLM (Product Lifecycle Management)
• Thermal simulation tools (experience preferred)
• PCB design collaboration and documentation
• Manufacturing process understanding, especially for sheet metal and plastic parts
• Communication and documentation skills

Practical notes

• This is an on-site role based in Santa Clara, CA, and does not include remote or hybrid work arrangements.
• The salary range for this position is $120,000 to $180,000, depending on experience and qualifications.
• Additional benefits for U.S.-based employees include medical, dental, vision coverage, wellness programs, income protection, and tax savings opportunities.
• The company is committed to equal opportunity employment, making hiring decisions without discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or other protected factors.
• All personal information collected during the hiring process will be handled confidentially in accordance with EEO guidelines.
• Arista Networks is a leader in data-driven networking solutions, focusing on cloud computing, software-defined networking, and innovative hardware products.
• The company values diversity and inclusion, recognizing that varied perspectives foster creativity and drive technological advancement.
• This role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge data center hardware, working with a talented team dedicated to excellence and innovation.